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avionvadion · 4 years

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More of my old pokemon drawings! Since... I’m apparently back in that obsession now. Frick. Oh well. These were for chapters 10 and 12 respectively. The Underground Hideout and The Taste of Freedom.

Basil: Bulbasaur. Belladonna: Weepinbell. Ansem: Eevee.

There is a lot of dark topics surrounding this story, such as kidnapping, trauma, and abuse, so... if that makes you uncomfortable please don’t keep reading.

https://archiveofourown.org/works/22998952/chapters/54987940

Grunt, the girl, is thirteen. Various factors such as stress, depression, and malnourishment had caused her growth to be greatly stunted so she looks like a small child. One of her hands is crooked from an injury she received growing up in Team Rocket, the majority of her arm numb as a result of poor healing. She met Steven YEARS ago, which is the very start of the story, when he was ten and she was four. They made a promise over a broken dawn stone to meet again after she was taken in by social services, but then Team Rocket happened. Because of her lack of a name they called her “Grunt” to mock her future as a Team Rocket grunt.

As a result of learning from the news that his very new friend got taken, Steven makes it a goal to track them down. Several years pass with no luck and everyone convinces him to give up, so he focuses on his career instead. But then... the headquarters blows up, because a certain legendary pokemon was told the truth and escaped. And he picks up where he left off, aiming to avenge the friend everyone is convinced is long dead or a member of Team Rocket, with Wallace and Winona’s help. (This is where the conspiracy theorist Steven drawing desire comes in, since he has all these old newspapers and stuff for all the Team Rocket sightings and missing children/pokemon)

Meanwhile, Grunt- having recently escaped due to the explosion- ends up journeying, very reluctantly might I add, with Brock and eventually Blue, to strengthen her pokemon by taking on the gym leaders, heading back to Hoenn, and freeing all the children/pokemon being held captive by Team Rocket, and hopefully reunite with that friend she can no longer truly remember- the dawn stone being the only thing she had that reminds her that he had once existed.

The man antagonists in this story are Richard (Rich) and Velga, Giovanni, and all of Team Rocket. (Jesse and James will make their appearance in ORAS)

Chapter 10 Bit: I had been more than prepared to defend myself against anything the adult could have done. The battle went by easier than expected, especially compared to Rich and Velga, and his tactics reminded me more of those random goons found lurking about in Mt. Moon when Brock and I had been searching for the fossils. What neither of us had been expecting, however, was what happened after I defeated him.

"Wh… What!?"

"I told you before," I growled, starting to feel the familiar sensation of frustration as my words continued to fail in being understood by this person, "I'm not joining you."

"But… with your skills you could totally become a top leader!" He protested. "Your pōkemon and leadership are incredible!" When he saw I was not being swayed he faltered, taking several steps back. His teeth ground together and his eyes lit up with rage, frustration on his face. "You and that boy… damn it all! Do you realize what you're turning down!? You selfish, spoiled little kids will never understand what it's like to be part of something great! Not like this! So I guess… I'll just have to show you."

"Explain!" Brock frowned deeply when the adult started to cackle, the teen stepping forward and readying to summon a pokemon at a moment's notice. "What are you trying to do? Why does Team Rocket want to use kids so badly?"

"Hm?" He tilted his head, blinking. "Oh, you haven't figured it out? You really are just a child."

I closed my eyes, expression growing empty and solemn. It was such an obvious answer, one I had learned a long time ago. Considering how he's acted so far, I knew my travelling companion would not like the answer. Ignorance, in cases like these, was complete and total bliss. But when living under such terrible conditions like I had for so long ignorance was a curse and knowledge was power. With his view of the world, I knew the truth would only enrage him further should he find out.

"Brock, don't…"

The boy looked back at me, confused when he heard my voice trail off and go quiet. "But you want to know, right? You deserve to know! Grunt, you-"

"Grunt?" The adult echoed. Realization dawned on his face and he whirled around, staring at me with big eyes. "You can't be… no, no, no- hold on. Yes, of course! How did I not realize!? You were there that day, weren't you? The day the headquarters blew up…"

The hate on his face intensified and Brock tensed, chills going down his spine as he took a fearful step back, holding a shaky arm up in front of me, the boy bravely pushing me behind him. His actions no longer surprised me, though the logic behind them did. "It wasn't her fault!" He protested, defending me. The way he said it made it almost sound like that sentence would solve everything; that it would make all the hurt go away. Brock, despite his fear, spoke with confidence.

Unfortunately, he knew nothing. I still haven't explained everything to him.

Him believing that I didn't know why children were being used was proof of that. I knew all too well why kids like me were targeted; I just… found it hard to speak about it. I think I just didn't want to upset him anymore than he already was over my situation, which was weird. He shouldn't be so upset about it; it wasn't like my life was something particularly special that should be deserving of attention, and yet… here we are.

He said I was the one who cared too much, but it was so obviously the other way around. This only showed more with Brock's kind words.

Unfortunately, the person across from us did not care to listen. He was bristling with rage, only hearing and focusing on what he wanted to. "It was… It was you! You little brat- my friend died in that fire!"

I flinched at those words, the guilt washing over me like a tidal wave. It was suffocating, the weight of the lives taken crushing me inside. My head ducked down as he continued to scream, Brock's back being the only thing blocking him from my view. The boy kept me behind him as best as he could as we started to become surrounded- all the trainers from before crowding around us and removing their disguises, revealing the large red R that was plastered over all of their chests.

"That's not on you," I heard Brock say firmly, speaking to me and momentarily snapping me out of my darker thoughts, his attention never leaving the evil trainers around us, "you didn't mean for it to happen."

But... I still caused it. I freed the legendary pōkemon that exploded the building.

Their deaths were on my hands. I murdered them.

And these people… those that were little kids had actually been wearing well-made masks, revealing very small adults. They were all Team Rocket. In my panic to rescue Blue I made a very grave mistake; I stopped observing. If I had paid the slightest bit of attention to their attire or appearance anymore than I had then this could have been avoided. I knew their tactics inside-out and yet I let this happen.

I… I screwed up. Frick.

Why do I keep making the simplest of mistakes? Was it because this was the outside world?

It was so much larger and vast than I had ever expected it to be, and despite my reluctance to trust strangers I still found myself letting down my guard, fooled by the kindness that had been shown to me by so many. This was going to cost us dearly.

The people started to grow closer and I tensed, watching as Ansem and Basil growled at the Team Rocket members. There were so many of them; I could handle one or two of them easily, but six? The leader yelled at me, cursing my existence, and without realizing I found myself grabbing onto the hem of Brock's jacket, scared as the consequences of my foolishness caught up with me, clinging onto the newer light shining before me in desperation for comfort.

I… caused this.

I failed. Just like back in the caves, I… couldn't protect anyone.

We were totally trapped.

Brock glanced over his shoulder at me before turning around, wrapping his arms around me. I was shaking, barely breathing as horror and guilt took over, the older teen keeping me pressed close to his chest protectively. He called out to my pōkemon, catching their attention as I started to shut down and surrender to my darker emotions. "Ansem, Belladonna, Basil! Get us out of here!"

"Oh, no you don't! Aerodactyl, go!" The violet-haired man raised a hand outwards, eyes flashing dangerously. A large gust of wind appeared, nearly blowing us all off our feet. Suddenly a big pōkemon appeared from a pōkeball, flying high into the air, beating its wings. An ear-piercing screech erupted from its throat, making it difficult to hear the goon speak. "If it weren't for the boss wanting you alive, I'd kill you myself! So instead, I'll have you all suffer! "

The ground began to shake, and Brock stumbled sideways- being forced to let go as I staggered backwards. Basil panicked and leapt into his arms, scared of being seperated, and Ansem started to bark again and dashed towards me, Belladonna right behind him.

Just where was this earthquake coming from? It wasn't from his Aerodactyl; it was coming from…

...underground?

Oh frick, oh frick, oh Arceus, oh gods-

I'm so sorry-!

We're going to be killed!

I screwed up!

This is all my fault!

Why did I escape so soon!?

The ground itself began to open up, shifting as two metal slabs drifted apart, and as I sat there frozen in terror Brock was shouting, calling out me as he stumbled over, trying to get to me and the rest of my pōkemon. Basil wailed loudly, tears in his eyes, and in my shock it took me a second too long to notice Brock's outstretched hand. I struggled to move, constantly knocked back down by the violent shaking of the earth, and in my desperation I reached out for him.

This was all too familiar.

In the recesses of my mind, buried deep into my memory from a time long ago, I remembered. It wasn't the first time I bore witness to such a thing, but I was certainly never on it when it happened. It was just like how the Hoenn base opened up when I was first stolen away and… when I left to Kanto on that cursed helicopter Rich and Velga made me ride.

And, deeper still, I had the feeling that I once reached out like this for someone. Who, I wasn't sure, but the sensation of a memory was there- trying to claw its way to the surface and tearing at my brain, forcing my skull to throb even more than it already was.

The Team Rocket goon raised his voice, shouting at us with a crazed grin, rage in his eyes. "Your pōkemon, your supplies; they'll all be ours!" He declared. "And you, Grunt, traitor to our kind, will suffer alongside your foolish companion!"

That was when the ground beneath me gave way, crumbling to pieces, and as I fell through the trap door I saw a quick flash of green-and-brown as Brock leapt after, following me down into the underground like a fool.

"Together forever! Trapped in the underground maze we've created!"

Rather than air, I thought of water- cold, freezing water that was filled with debris, and skies that seemed to boil with heat. Falling deeper and deeper, sinking below the surface.

Stuck… in the terrifying abyss of darkness.

As we tumbled deep into the black I muttered not so much as a word, not even able to scream, only watching with wide eyes as the light above us vanished. For a moment, as the trap doors closed and we continued to fall, all hope was lost. I found myself wondering if this was truly the end.

"A-Are you okay? What's wrong?"

It was still there- buried in the recesses of my mind. As much as I felt I should start ignoring it, I couldn't help but find that the traces of connection still held strong. My heart just couldn't let go. Everything always went back to that one person, after all, and I spent so long surviving on the pure hope of seeing him again. Even now he was haunting me, the memory of that promise keeping me rooted to this earth.

Earth…

So many years I spent living on this planet; obeying orders, acting as the puppet I was groomed to be, and plotting schemes that were only doomed to fail. Everything I ever dreamed of or desired to obtain was just too far out of reach, and they were all centered around that boy I had met so long ago. As time past my goals did shift, focusing more on the rescue of the other children, but the fact remained- I wanted to see him again.

To thank him for saving me so many times.

But… it was all an illusion. Even this freedom I have now is false.

I'm still trapped by Team Rocket.

And now… I've never felt more useless. Falling endlessly through nothingness, mind and heart slowly giving up as everything went downhill once more. It wasn't as if I truly desired to go on this journey in the first place; all I wanted was to find the police, inform them of the hideout, and then go on my way to find that mysterious boy whom I made a promise to. Yet… those plans failed too.

Everything I come up with just… fails.

Perhaps this was the world's cruel sense of justice- to get back at me for causing such a tragedy. Team Rocket was full of cruel and terrible people; they were evil beyond belief. But that didn't mean the deserved to die. Those evil enough to kidnap children and torture them, stealing them away from their families, and even go so far as to experiment on innocent pōkemon…

They needed to be imprisoned. That fate, that kind of suffering, was far worse and more befitting.

But… I was starting to believe that there was no such thing as justice. Only karma, the world making twists and turns to toy with the lives of those that lived on its back.

"Don't forget about me, you hear!?"

I'm sorry. I did. I remember your words, though the voice that once accompanied them is long gone. It was thanks to you that I became so good at surviving, yet I'm afraid that that itself was a grave mistake. My existence only ever seemed to cause others to hurt. Whether it be by putting them in danger or inadvertently hurting them with words…

I'm starting to think you should have let me rot on that street.

"Veeevaa!"

That cry snapped me back into my senses.

The world around me seemed to recollect sound and my eyes slowly opened, vision taking a while to adjust to the dark. In the distance, somewhere nearby, I could hear Ansem barking. Brock was screaming- calling out to me and trying to locate where I was. The guilt hit full force as I thought about the family that was waiting for him. They had told me to protect him, to keep him safe, and here he is falling to his death because of me.

There's… no way I can just let him die, can I?

Not like this.

Basil, Belladonna… they were all so innocent. Like the kind strangers I've met, they've only done things to help me. The pōkemon chose me as their trainer.

Did that… Did that condemn them to this fate? Because they outstretched their hands to me?

I don't… want that. I don't want them to suffer because of me.

Too much blood has already been spilled.

I can't help people; I'm only ever good at endangering them. My only real accomplishment was staying alive- so, that means… I just have to figure out a way to extend that to those I surrounded myself with. The determination to reach my goal, the willingness to do whatever it took to reach the finish line. The reluctance of falling back into the arms of those who would hurt me, to accept those who would gather me.

Obligation, obedience. Fear, guilt. Cowardice, courage.

Hate… and love.

My eyes squeezed tightly shut, burning with tears as so many emotions welled up inside me, mixing together and creation a concoction that was far from healthy. As they bubbled up, some strange sensation rising in the back of my throat, I opened my mouth and out came a cry- a scream full of rage and frustration, aggravating my still-not-quite-healed vocal chords. A howl echoed out afterwards, coming from the ever loyal Ansem, the pōkemon reacting quite intensely to my overflowing emotions. My arms shot out and I reached blindly in the direction I heard them, body coiling around a large and soft body, fur tickling my face.

It was so dark I couldn't see anything and it hurt so much to keep my eyes open, but I have to get us through this! I have to survive, so they can survive! It's the only thing my foolish self is good at!

I had no idea how much longer we had before we splat against the ground, as we had been falling for quite a while, and as a result of this knowledge adrenaline started to pump through my veins, causing my heart to race as I hiccuped and choked, mind reeling with ideas and solutions to the problem we found ourselves in. That goon said we were heading into an underground maze, which meant it could very well be a Team Rocket hideout they've created. Our pōkemon, our supplies- he said they would be theirs.

This trap was most likely designed to capture those who refused their offer to join the organization, made with the intention of stealing their money and pōkemon.

That meant that there had to be some sort of safety mechanism at the bottom- or maybe they expected us to call the pōkemon back into their pōkeballs to save them, leaving us humans to splatter into goop at the bottom. Regardless the reason, the design, or their plans, we couldn't risk just falling forever until we became sludge on the ground. We had to take precautions. And, as someone who grown up learning how to plot and scheme by the very criminals that were entrapping us, they were greatly underestimating me.

No… they were underestimating us.

I'm not alone anymore. Brock, the pōkemon… we're all here working together. Journeying together. We're friends.

And Brock just so happened to be a retired gym leader, who owned a pōkemon that was so large that he could easily stop our fall if he so wished.

If memory served correctly, and I'm praying it did because I'm panicking so badly right now that it was rather hard to think straight, Onix was a pōkemon who liked to burrow in underground places. He could even evolve naturally into some kind of steel-type pōkemon once deep enough, becoming embedded with either crystals or diamonds, or maybe both.

It might hurt a bit, but… we could use him to our advantage here. Feeling Ansem nuzzle his face into the curve of my bandaged neck, I called out as loudly as I could, ignoring the sensation of what felt like glass piercing the inside of my throat. "Brooooock!"

"Grunt!?" The boy was alarmed. It sounded like he was coming somewhere from my… left… yet higher up. He jumped in after me, so it makes sense that I'm farther down than him. "Grunt, where are you!?"

"O-Over here!"

Ansem started to bark, sensing my pain as I started to cough. Frick- I seriously needed a drink now. It felt like needles were stabbing my neck from the inside. It was almost as if the pōkemon was trying to alert the others to our presence, so that I wouldn't have to.

Still, if we couldn't reach each other… the plan might not work. "Can you hear me!? G-Grab my hand!"

"Where!?"

I reached out above me, following the sound of his voice, trying to grasp some part of him.

Something brushed my fingers and, before I even had a chance to latch on, his hand grabbed onto my wrist and suddenly I was being pulling forward. I barely had time to let out a yelp before his arms were around my back, holding me and Ansem to him, the boy cradling the back of my head as if to shield my skull from anymore injury. I wasn't quite sure when it happened, how it happened, but sometime during the past few days his touches were starting to become less anxiety inducing and more comforting.

"I've got you!"

I didn't flinch away as much in the hospital when he was braiding my hair back then, either, so I could only assume it was because of something during my wretched stay there. Something that was actually making me reach out for touch. Keeping one hand on his shoulder and the other wrapped around Ansem so not to drop him, I was about to suggest my idea when Brock yelled again.

"W-We need to do something quick!"

"I-I know, just- where's Onix!?"

"Onix? Oh, of course!" Keeping an arm around my waist, Ansem wailing as his claws dug deep into my shoulder, Basil clinging to Brock's backpack while Belladonna cried from somewhere nearby, Brock reached out to his belt. Snatching a pōkeball and enlargening it, he held it up into the air and yelled, "Onix, come out! I choose you!"

Chapter 12 Bit:

I squeezed my eyes tightly shut, bringing the dawn stone up and resting my knuckles against my lips. My voice was muffled, but I didn't care. Everything just hurt so much, yet somehow not enough all the same. The cold, the numbness- it was all there. Amplified. Suffocating. Choking. I could barely think.

"H-he gave… he gave me the stone… t-to remind me. To remind him in case he… he forgot about me."

"...I see." Brock gave my shoulder a light squeeze, seeing how hard I was trying not to break down. "I'm glad he found you, then."

Yeah. But…

"I-I don't remember." Brock's eyebrows shot up, alarmed when he heard the sudden crack in my voice. I looked up at him, bottom lip quivering as a fresh wave of tears welled up. "I-I don't remember him, Brock. H-His face, his name, I- I can't… I can't r-recall…"

I can't recall anything.

Before he could say something to that and before I could say anything else, the woman suddenly spoke up- near flinching back when Ansem snarled at her. "W-We're here! T-Take this staircase and go through the teleporter, and you'll find the control room. See? I-I'll… I'll show you!"

Inhaling sharply, trying to distance myself from my emotions long enough to get through whatever the next encounter was, I pulled away from Brock and picked up the pace, moving my short legs as fast as they would go. I waited until the woman was through the teleporter to go myself, Ansem still being carried and stone back in my pocket, and Belladonna and Basil followed suit. Then it was Brock, then Machamp and Blue, and gradually the rest of the pōkemon…

But we weren't the only group here in the room. Without a word Machamp lowered Blue to the ground, leaving me to struggle in holding him up alone until Brock came over and grabbed the teen by the shoulders. Then the large muscular pōkemon stepped forward, standing in front of us three with Ansem and Umbreon on either side of him. Basil and Belladonna released the woman we were holding captive and she stumbled forward, rushing to the group of Team Rocket goons and… their pōkemon.

They were expecting us.

I mean, I can only imagine how much word got around about us kids when Brock was tending to Blue back in the lab- the people Belladonna knocked out must have woken up and alerted the higher-ups. These people, the adults, were more than ready to fight.

Or, rather, more than ready to have innocent pōkemon do the fighting for them.

The woman we had released whirled around with a gasp, striking the pose every goon had been forced to memorize. It took everything I had not to cringe at the sight of it, instead focusing on making sure I didn't topple over from Blue's body weight. "To infect the world with devastation, to blight all people in every nation! To denounce the goodness of truth and love, to extend our wrath to the stars above! We are Team Rocket circling the earth day and night, and you are just a bunch of brats in our way! C'mon, everyone- group attack!"

Oh no. Okay. Here we go.

A Tauros lowed and stomped a hoof against the floor, a Meowth residing atop its back. Two Zubats flew around them, flapping their wings as they stared at us nervously. Brock scowled, clicking his tongue and using one hand to reach to his belt. "Of course there are several here… Geodude, go! Help out the others!"

"M-Machamp…!" Blue began, voice hoarse from coughing. "Get them!"

"Ansem-!" I was unable to finish. Machamp was suddenly storming forward, locked onto its targets, swinging with all four fists at the Tauros when it charged. I cringed and ducked my head down upon hearing the bull-pōkemon's cries of pain, knowing full well it was fighting against its will. I hated this violence so much. "Belladonna, Basil…"

"Bulba!"

"Weeeepin!"

Vines erupted from their bodies and swung towards their foes, catching the Zubats before they could unleash a devasting flying-attack upon them. Meowth leapt up from the defeated Tauros' back, landing atop Machamp's head and using it to boost itself up again, and slashed at the vines. Basil cried out and loosened his hold, allowing a Zubat to escape, and the pōkemon hurriedly let loose several blades of wind.

Aerial Ace.

Belladonna was sent flying, several cuts lining her body as she crashed into the wall, vines retreated back into her body. Basil let out a concerned shout, but barely had time to recover himself when the second Zubat slammed itself right into him, head ramming into his side. No…

"Stand up!" My voice was panicked. Blue looked down at me in surprise as Brock ordered his Geodude to defend Belladonna as Meowth approached her. He never heard me sound so desperate and scared before. "Stand up now!"

Don't do this.

Don't you dare die.

"Basil!"

We haven't lost a single battle, so there was no way it could happen now. I won't let it.

Bulbasaur struggled to push himself up onto his feet, red eyes watering from the pain. Cuts now lined his legs from Zubat using Aerial Ace on him after the headbutt, but his expression was a determined one.

Ansem, seeing the way his companions were harmed, let out an angered roar, deciding to leave Meowth and Belladonna's Zubat alone for now, Geodude taking care of it with Machamp's help, and targeted Basil's Zubat instead. Stretching out his claws, Ansem jumped into the air as high as his legs would let him, and he caught his front paws on the pōkemon's wings, knocking it greatly off balance.

"Vaaaa!"

As they fell to the ground Ansem rolled over, biting down hard into its wings and tearing them. He was furious. The woman from before- the one we had guide us here- was glaring daggers at us, shaking with her fists held to her side in a rage. The other Team Rocket goons were both startled and very much angry, unable to believe they were now losing the battle. Worse of all, it was to a bunch of kids and their pōkemon.

Feeling Blue's weight increase I shifted in place, standing on my toes in an attempt to straighten my back and keep Blue from leaning over too much. Unfortunately, that was quite difficult as I was the smallest human in existence and these two were hecking towers in comparison. I could feel the heat coming off of Blue's face due to his fever- his heart pounding desperately in his chest in an attempt to keep him breathing. It was very unnerving.

"W-Weezings!" I glanced behind me as best as I could, trying to get a look at the other pōkemon, but auburn hair was in the way. "C-Can you help? Please?"

"Weeez?" They looked at me, surprised. "Weezing?"

The many Weezings looked at each other. If memory served right, these pōkemon had a variety of very useful moves- assuming they've already learned them, of course, and Belladonna was a bit too hurt to use her Sleeping Powder special on them.

"Weez…"

"Weez, Weezing!"

"Weez!"

"O-On the Team Rocket members!" I continued, voice cracking a little. Brock stopped issuing orders and looking back at me, alarmed. Then a bright grin spread across his face.

"Grunt, you're a genius!"

That was the wrong thing to say. The higher-up Team Rocket members shared a glance, their faces paling and somehow becoming disbelieving and enraged all at once. "Wait, what?"

"Grunt?"

One of them pointed at me, narrowing his eyes. "You're the escapee from headquarters? You? I knew you were a child, but… how old are you!? Eight?" The gaped, dumbfounded, and I tensed upon hearing their words. I was starting to believe that maybe going by my old title was a bad idea, and that maybe I should just go around titleless and nameless. "The fuck? Holy Arceus- if we bring you back to the boss…"

"We'll be promoted again!" A female Team Rocket member gasped, pressing her hands to her face. The woman from before looked exasperated by their behavior, her main goal being revenge for how we treated her. "And their pōkemon… they might be ours!"

"Who cares about that?" Another exclaimed. "Think of the pay raise!"

"Wow," Blue choked out, trying to joke, "you're famous, huh?"

My expression went blank at that, disliking the attention I was receiving. A flash of purple in the corner of my eyes snapped me back into attention, and I raised my head with wide eyes to see the many Weezings floating forward, Machamp carrying Belladonna and Basil back to us while Ansem removed his fangs from a fainted Zubat.

The Weezings continued forward, not stopping until they were past our pōkemon and residing over the fainted ones, facing the Team Rocket goons with a strange look in their eyes. The poison-type pōkemon looked angry, hurt, scared… and very fierce. "W-Weezings?"

Suddenly, and without warning, they all surged forward- flying over the crowd to the goons and headbutting them as hard as they possibly could. On impact the Weezings let out huge clouds of grey and purple smoke, causing the Team Rocket goons to start coughing as the smoke filled up the area. The many Zubats behind us, the ones we freed, decided they wanted to help out as well- swinging their wings forward and causing air blades to shoot towards them, slicing at the goons and tearing up their uniforms.

I tried not to flinch away this time upon hearing their screams, but it was too much. I just… couldn't not close my eyes. Machamp setting Basil and Belladonna by my feet, he dashed back into the action with Geodude, Ansem following behind. Together they all attacked the goons, knocking them out hard as they collapsed onto the ground. I think I heard a nasty crack from one of them, probably from the one Machamp punched in the ribs, but…

No. You know what? I'm not…

I'm not going to think about it. I cringed and shook my head, eyebrows knitting together as pain temporary flickered onto my expression. I tightened my hold on Blue's arm and waist, shifting once more as I nearly lost balance from standing on my toes for so long. "Um, frick. Okay. Uh- Brock, I-"

"I'm on it."

"Huh?" I blinked, eyes opening and turning to see him walking over there where the adults and pōkemon were, the Weezings' smoke clearing. He still had to hold part of his hood over his mouth so he wouldn't start coughing, since there was quite a bit left, but it was otherwise okay for him to head into it. "What are-"

Oh.

He knelt down, patting the adults down in an attempt to find what I could only assume to be a keycard or remote, or anything that would help us get out of here. He tossed whatever pōkeballs he found onto the ground, leaving Machamp to stomp on the empty ones- while freeing the others that remained inside. Brock also rummaged through their bags, pulling out several super potions and berries, and used those on the fainted and injured pōkemon.

Blue and I slowly waddled our way over there, and upon seeing the pōkemon's confused stares and the way the boys were looking at me… I had to greet the previously abused pōkemon. It was very awkward and uncomfortable, and it was only thanks to the other rescued pōkemon jumping into the conversation that the newly freed ones calmed down. It was mess.

Meowth looked especially lost.

"Meow…?"

A Weezing floated down and spoke to it. Understanding dawned on its face and relieved tears welled up in the pōkemon's eyes.

"Mrrooooooow!"

Haaaah, I need to get out of here. Brock shoved the remainder of the supplies into his own backpack, deciding that Team Rocket didn't need these supplies if they were just going to use them for villainy, and he slid the straps over his shoulders. Standing, he let out a heavy sigh and looked up, smiling softly at Geodude as he floated over. "Hey, buddy. You did great out there!" He raised a hand, petting the pōkemon lightly on the head.

"Geooo!" Geodude beamed, proud of himself. Shortly after, Brock recalled the pōkemon back into its ball. The boy turned, staring at the large array of computers behind him.

"I… think this might be the control panel you were talking about, Grunt."

Yeah. Yeah, he calls me by my title way too often.

He was a stupidly nice person, but every time he called me by that title it always sent whatever Team Rocket goon we were battling into a fury. And while, strategically, it could be a good thing as that meant the opponent would stop thinking clearly and act on impulse… it mostly depended on the person we were dealing with. And while deciding not to go by it anymore would prevent that from happening, chances are Team Rocket will now recognize me no matter what since so many have seen what I look like.

So… what should I do?

I bit down on my lip, thinking deeply as I glanced around at the many screens and buttons. They were all so familiar to me, yet strange all the same. How come? It wasn't from the Hoenn base, though I have seen many adults work with the computers there. I watched as Brock began to fiddle with the buttons, Basil marching up and nuzzling his leg, Belladonna and Ansem sitting at my feet. I've come to the conclusion that Basil really liked Brock, which just goes further to show what a kind person he is.

I'm surprised he didn't choose him as trainer instead.

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onestowatch · 4 years

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Teddy Swims on His Upcoming Debut EP, Writing Process, and Metamorphosis [Q&A]

It’s Spring time in Snellville, Georgia and the year is 2019. Teddy Swims is living in a spacious abode with his producer, his manager, his videographer, his photographer and all of the musicians from his former rock band (the Elefvnts). This was more than just a typical living arrangement in a party atmosphere. It was a bonding experience that lasted for about one year. And it was a pivotal time period where Teddy Swims developed a songwriting formula that would help him blend his love for R&B and Soul with heavy components of Country Rock and Pop music. The writing sessions at this house spawned the release of an original composition called “Night Off” and a series of cover songs that would go on to help Teddy Swims garner the attention of legendary mainstream recording artists like Shania Twain.

Fast forward to the year 2020. Teddy Swims has moved to Atlanta and he’s now signed to Warner Records. With the studio release of “Picky” firmly notched under his belt, the brand new artist has set out for greener pastures. We spoke with Teddy Swims about his upcoming debut EP, his writing process and his metamorphosis from rock singer to to hip-hop/R&B artist.

Ones to Watch: With the help of your band, the name Teddy Swims has generated quite the buzz on the internet. Especially after releasing a series of covers that range from hit songs by The Weeknd and Luther Vandross to Shania Twain and Vanessa Carlton. Who’s responsible for coming up with the arrangements of these renditions and how do you determine what songs to cover?

Teddy Swims: It’s all my guys man! When we did the first cover [“Rock With You”] by Michael Jackson, it was ten years after the day he died and that’s what started us doing covers in the first place. And then sometimes we’ll do a new song that’s out and we’ll try to kind of get ahead of the curve and maybe get a little play off of something that’s number one of the charts right now…but we rarely do it like that.

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What kind of reaction have you gotten from musicians whose songs you’ve covered?

We recently re-cut and put out a new version of a Shania [Twain] record. We did that with Dave Cobb. He knows Shania and he sent that to her. So just hearing that she loved it and is a fan now--that’s what it’s all about!

You lived in a compound with your management team and all twelve members of your band for about a year. Tell me a little bit about the song selection process when it came down to finalizing tracks for your upcoming debut album. Was that something that you included the core members of your team in on or did you make those decisions on your own?

At the end of the day, I’m never going to say that my way is always the right way… We built this ourselves…I always say: ‘If there’s twelve of us here it’s not a democracy—it’s a jury.’ We can all figure out why we have to make a decision. But if there’s two or three people that don’t have the same answer as us, there’s always time to make sure that everyone can get on the same page. Because we trust each other and we have each other’s best interest at heart.

Your music videos seem to be just as charismatic as your live shows. Tell me a little bit about the inspiration behind the music videos for Picky (directed by Kevin Johnson) and Broke (directed by Joel Chivington).

We do it all in-house. This whole past year we’ve been in a house in Snellville [Georgia] that had all twelve of us living there. My band, my producer, my manager… our whole team. So, what we wanted to capture with those is the story of family. Everything that we filmed in most of the music videos is right here in our hometown of Conyers, Georgia. Which is like everything that you see from the bar and the candy store in “Picky” to the coffee shop. It was right here in Conyers.

I looked up some throwback photos of you on MySpace, your fashion sense has evolved so much over the past decade. I noticed a lot of Rock influenced clothing during your high school years, but then you slowly gravitated towards hip hop attire. How has your sense of style influenced your music and which genre are you truly the most comfortable in?

Sometimes we’ll write a song and it will come out so Country. And sometimes we’ll write a song that will come out so Hip-hop….I genuinely don’t know if I’ll ever find out what my [genre] is. I think we’re getting to a place with music where genres are absolutely fluid and [music] can be whatever you want it to be as long as it’s honest. As long as it feels like soul, that’s all that matters to me.

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If you had to pick one genre for the rest of your life--which one would it be?

Soul music man…baby making music. I think that could be any genre. There’s soul in Country, there’s soul in Hip-hop and soul in R&B. I love to listen to a song and if you feel that nostalgic feeling even though you’ve never heard the song…that’s what I chase, no matter what the genre.

You’re from Conyers, Georgia, but you’re currently based in Atlanta. A lot of great musicians have come from your home state. You’ve mentioned in the past how much your home means to you. Who’s on your Mt. Rushmore of recording artists from Georgia and why?

Andre and Big Boi [from Outkast], Ray Charles, James Brown and Otis Redding.

I read that the SWIMS in your last name is actually an acronym that means: Someone Who Isn’t Me Sometimes. Give our readers an in-depth description of the personal meaning of that acronym for you. At what moment did Jaten Dimsdale become Teddy Swims?

Last year in March, my buddy Addy Maxwell (producer, guitarist, trumpeter) was building beats and sending them to rappers around the area in Atlanta and they would send stuff back. So back in March, we ended up creating this SoundCloud rap song. The next thing you know we had the opportunity to go on tour. So, we built thirty minutes of music and went on my very first tour, after ten years of being in bands—we went on tour as Teddy Swims. At that time, when we started the rap thing I was going by “Swims” which is an acronym that I saw on forums and it just meant someone who isn’t me. So, I thought that I could just kind of be whoever I wanted to be in rap and never really take it seriously. It was just going to be a little rap thing for me to not take seriously. And then, we took it on tour…and it just kind of stuck that way.

The coronavirus has caused recording artists who are signed to major record labels, like yourself, to drastically change their plans for 2020. But what about your plans for 2021? Are we going to get a debut album out of you next year? And if so, can you tell us a little bit about it?

I can’t say for sure but that’s the plan. We plan on having an EP out at the beginning of next year and an album out sometime next year…At this point we’re writing right now, so I don’t want to tell you what something’s going to be about and then change my mind…I’m scared to commit something. Maybe the album will be about my fear of commitment (laughs).

What events in your life have made you a better songwriter? Heartbreak? A tragic loss? Falling in Love?

I’ll definitely say that I tend to put myself in situations to sometimes get hurt, to write better songs. Some of my worst heartbreaks have been the best songs…it’s definitely been super inspiring in making me deal with some things that I don’t like dealing with and focus on some matters that I didn’t know that I needed to focus on.

What’s a typical writing session like between Teddy Swims and Elefvnts?

We have a B Room Studio and an A Room Studio in our old house. So I might be tracking vocals on something from yesterday and (the band) might be working on something or maybe Jesse [Hampton] has his own laptop and he’s recording a guitar and he just drops [the track] in the dropbox and the next day Addy [Maxwell] pulls it up and hears some piano and puts a beat behind it. And the next day I might pull it up on my laptop and then get an idea and write and then we all get together and kind of piece it together. So, we just put a bunch of files in a dropbox and people will just pick songs and say: “Oh I have an idea for this!” We are able to sometimes be in the same room and just jam and write. But before (Covid-19) we were able to just jam as a band and always be playing, which was great.

Not including anyone that you are currently working with, who would be your dream executive producer and why?

I would always have to say my best friend in the world, Lee Rouse (the band’s producer and engineer). But if it was someone that I wish I could work with? I’d have to say Timbaland. A record with Timbaland would be crazy! Pharrell would be crazy too…And Dr. Dre of course.

What kind of music do you think you and Dr Dre. could make together?

I don’t know (laughs). I’d do whatever he tells me to do. I’d be like: “You’re the man, whatever you say. Let’s go!” I would die to meet him, just to pick his brain and get the wisdom because I’m always a student to it. I would want to learn the mindset from producer to CEO to everything. Because that is everything that I want to be.

You donated the proceeds of What’s Going On (a song originally recorded by Marvin Gaye) to the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund. Why’d you decide to donate to that cause in particular?

When we did it, I put a grand in to five different [social causes]. I wanted to give to something that was a bigger conglomerate in that way…I am so strong of a believer in the Black Lives Matter movement. Here we are, two hundred years later and we can’t open our eyes. I think that “What’s Going On” is perfect song written at the perfect time and it still just as powerful today! I think that says a lot about us as a society…We always hear about the Breonna Taylors and the George Floyds, but there’s so many people like that who are getting brushed under the rug. In my hometown, there was a kid two years ago named Shali Tilson. He was having a mental health episode and he was arrested. When he got in the Rockdale County Jail, they put him in solitary confinement for nine days with no food or water and he died. A 22-year old black man. Nothing has been done about it…. So, if I could say anything, I encourage people to look into what’s going on in your small towns. There are small towns like Conyers where this has been happening for years and it just gets brushed under the rug.

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#Teddy Swims #R&B #Soul #Q&A #Broke

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funeral-clown · 4 years

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for @wormbabie

merry christmas/happy belated birthday!

It was cold. That was the first thing that registered. Any lingering warmth hiding in his body was being drained out by the cool impassive stone he lie on, drank up greedily only to fade and freeze. He felt this, the cold that went beneath his skin. Cold veins. Cold guts. Cold bones. The second thing he notices, as his eyes slanted open, was that it was dark.

Oh, he thought, in that cold dark stillness. I’m dead.

And he was. Yet his fingers twitched, and his eyes rolled, and down in the core of him something pulsed. Not a heart, his heart was as good as dust. It was different. The only living thing left of him.

Hunger.

It twisted his belly. His throat scorched with a dry unbearable heat. His fingers clawed and his eyes squinted against the desperate throbbing thirst that overtook him. There was nothing there, only cold and dark, and in fear and need he began thrashing. The heavy stone tomb, for that was what it was, flew off as though it were a styrofoam prop. Slow, aching, he lifted himself out, staring silently at his epitaph.

Gabriel Reyes.

No, he thought. Not any longer. Gabriel Reyes was a good man, a passionate man who’s heart beat and veins wept. His eyes didn’t glow red in his sepulcher. His skin didn’t have an ashen grey tone. He loved and lived and didn’t freeze. He fought monsters. He wasn’t-

He wasn’t a monster.

Gabriel Reyes was dead, and now he stood alone and cold and so very very hungry. Snarling, he burst open the door to the crypt and swept silently out into the night.

Reyes was alive. He brought hope. But something- someone, had killed him. Hollowed him out, then brought something hungry back in his place. Someone had changed him. He wasn’t Reyes anymore. Already, he could feel the pull on his gut, the call of some higher power. A summons he could not ignore.

Reyes had brought help.

The Reaper brought only death.

Jesse hadn’t waited around after the funeral. No one had expected him to, and the only one to look a little disappointed at his hasty exit was little Fareeha, too young to understand.

“Jesse,” Ana has whispered, gathering him into her arms, “My sweet boy. You will always have a home with us, you know.”

“Yes, ma’am,” he had dutifully replied, letting himself go soft for a moment.

They both knew he wouldn’t stay. Not when the thing that had killed Gabe was still out there. Killed his mentor, his friend, his everything. The beast in his blood howled out mournfully at the loss, demanded he hunt her down. Hunting was what Jesse McCree did best. So with a quick good bye and a fierce scrub down in the church bathroom with cold water until his eyes weren’t burning anymore, he strode out into the burning morning. He didn’t wait to see where they laid him to rest. Rest was the last thing on his mind.

The first year had been about control. Specifically his lack of it. That had come with time, for which Reaper was quietly relieved. His head no longer pounded with aching need whenever he heard the pulse of a human heart. His teeth no longer grit through his lips at the faintest hint of blood. He was hungry, yes, but he was no longer mad with it. He could coil the hunger down tight into a small ball at the base of his belly, present but not persistent.

Under the Witch’s employ, he was often sated.

Still, long stretches came where she had no need of him. He would roam freely in the night, learning his new abilities. It had been 5 years since he had woken up, cold and alone, and the Reaper was a quick study. His tenuous control was iron clad now. He was never a man to be easily swayed in life, and in death he was practically stone. He answered to his Mistress, yes, but outside of her order he did not often feel ruled. Not by his hunger, not any longer. Not by the former members of his organization, hunters to the last. Jack was a bittersweet distant memory now.

The Reaper moved from town to town, feeding when necessary, spreading fear when bored. He was often bored.

Eternity offered little entertainment.

When he caught on to the hunter on his trail, it was almost delight that rustled in his chest. At last, a distraction from the cold and dark emptiness. The hunter was skilled, he could tell. They had to be, to stay on his track. Skilled, but fool hardy. He walked right into his trap, reckless.

Reaper laughed, letting the shadows grow long. The distraction had gone on long enough, playing cat and mouse and leaving fox trails with dead ends and cold tracks. He was ready to pick off the nuisance dogging his steps. He wasn’t ready for a familiar face.

Neither was Jesse.

He had been hunting the bastard for a while now. Another one of the Bitch of the Waste’s little henchmonsters. The Reaper, they called it. Jesse wanted to scoff at the dramatics. Gabe would have had a laugh about all this, were he still around.

The screaming girl in the warehouse was a trap, and an obvious one, but Jesse had his own ace in the hole, and he wasn’t afraid to go in guns blazing.

It was cold, and it was dark, and he was alone. But he wasn’t alone, was he? He bit back a snarl at the lingering presence in the back of his mind.

“Why don’t ya make this easy for yerself? Come on out where I can see ya.”

Cold, cruel laughter echoed through his bones. He forced himself not to shiver.

“Where you can shoot me, more like. Eh, cowboy?”

Jesse grit out a short, harsh facsimile of a laugh.

“Well. If’n it comes ta that.”

Red eyes glared from the dark, but the teeth? The sharp white teeth were bared in a delighted grin.

“And what can bullets do against shadows?”

“I aim to find out,” he snarled, letting off two sudden shots from his hip. They illuminated the corners for a second before splintering into the wood of the building. The eyes kept watching from fine mist, as Jesse rolled away to take shelter behind a pile of boxes. The flimsy cover offered little comfort.

“Don’t you know anything about vampires, boy? Did they not teach you before they set you on my trail?”

“I know plenty,” He called back, “Which is why these bullets are blessed!”

“Blessed. But a blessed bullet can’t do anything to smoke and mirrors, can it?”

The voice came from over his shoulder, and Jesse struggled not to flinch as superhuman strength dragged him backwards and threw him against the cold wall. He grunted at the impact, hoping his ribs were only bruised. A clawed hand grabbed him by the throat, pinning him with the somber threat of a crushed larynx. Not a fun time, even if it wouldn’t kill him. His guns were stripped and thrown into some dark corner. The line of stakes on his chest were plucked away. His holy water taken, Jesse’s weapons were all sought out, found, discarded, by freezing fingers. His skin was electric, every brush a shock that sent needles of angry protest down his spine. He ground down his sharpening teeth, kept his eyes closed to hide the glow. It wouldn’t do to give himself away so soon.

Then the sharp click of teeth by his ear, The rumble of laughter.

“Did they really send you to kill me? You?”

There was a rustle as his free hand rose to remove the bone white mask shielding the top half of his face, faux teeth like daggers framing his mouth, where his true fangs glinted death. His free hand tightened in warning.

“Oh, Jesse. I thought I trained you better, pup.”

His eyes shot open, gawking openly at his face. His throat worked hard against the palm of his hand.

“R-R’y. R’y’s?”

He brought his head down, leaning it against Jesse’s in a mockery of affection, stealing what little breath he had left.

“I missed you, runt.”

Moisture gathered at the corners of his eyes, and Jesse tried to tell himself it was the lack of oxygen.

“Y’r. Dead?”

Gabriel hummed, nodding his agreement. The slight movement brushed their noses together.

“Dead as a doornail, kid. And you.” A cold gust sighed against his cheeks. “You’re so warm.”

Gabriel released his throat, only to bring both hands up to tenderly cradle his face. The hunger he throttled down was raging, pulsing in time with his former partner’s heartbeat. His whole body throbbed in time with it, teeth aching to bury into his hot neck and drink greedily until all the warmth was inside him. But there was more. His dry empty veins were singing out in joy, and the feverish warmth was siphoning off into his skin, sparking underneath. This wasn’t just prey, a quick draining and casting the body aside. This was Jesse. His family. His boy. Reyes wanted to keep him. Wanted to make a feast of him, slow and sweet. Wanted to wrap him up in shadows and hold him tight and fast like a grave, so he couldn’t leave.

“Jesse,” he whispered, “Don’t you want to help?”

“Yeah, Boss,” Jesse choked out, holding back his sobs. “Yeah, I wanna help.”

“I’m lonely, pup. I don’t have anybody to kick around or keep me warm. Don’t you wanna come with me, kid? Just like old times?”

McCree wrapped his arms around him, ignoring him burying his face in his neck. Ignoring the twinge of teeth that sent every one of his instincts howling.

“Just a taste, Jesse. Promise, just a ta-”

Jesse dug his sharpened teeth into Gabriel’s throat, and tore. The dead flesh came apart in his mouth like tissue paper, black recycled blood gushing down his throat like cold death. His eyes glowed gold as he watched his mentor shriek, flying back, hissing and clutching his throat.

“Sorry, boss. Things change on the road.”

Gabriel glared at him, fangs bared, before going deadly still and calm.

“You really are a pup now, huh? Some mutt used you as a chew toy.” Gabriel laughed, a gurgling sound. “Does Jack know? Does Ana?” He took his hand from his throat, flesh already knitting back together. “How long did it take before they cast you out, Jesse. Or did they try to kill you first?” His sneer was an ugly, harsh thing.

“I left,” he replied simply. “Nobody chased me.”

“They didn’t know.”

“They didn’t need to.”

Gabriel smiled, wide, genuine.

“So you’ve got a touch of beast blood now. And you turned tail and ran. Right after me.”

“Right after you. To put you down. To end it. And your witch.”

Gabriel chuckled. No dramatic, booming laughter. No eerie snickers. Genuine humor, a soft remnant of his life.

“You got bit and you just ran off after me. God. You’re a smart man, Jesse, did you even stop to read up on weres?”

Jesse stiffened.

“I know enough. I know how to put em down.”

Gabriel laughed harder, setting his nerves on edge.

“Stop laughin’ at me.”

Gabe paused.

“Oh, Jesse. I’m not laughing at you. I’m laughing at fate. You have my blood in you too now, don’t you?”

Jesse growled.

“What’s that got to do with anything?”

Gabriel was before him in a flash, crowding him again, but his hands were gentler now. Easing himself into his space.

“Did you know, Jess? A part of you must have. That little whimpering puppy part that wants to show it’s belly.”

He shoved at him, only to be caught in a firm, controlled grip. Reyes grabbed him by the scruff, eyes flashing with warm pride at the small, choked off whine.

“Did you know?”

“Know what,” Jesse muttered, cringing at his own inability to look up from the floor.

“Vampires and werewolves have a long history, Jesse. Back in the day, it wasn’t unheard of for a whole pack to be under a vampire’s command. Beastblood. It makes you want a pack, doesn’t it.” It wasn’t a question. “Makes you want leadership. But that’s no different than it was before, was it cielito? You still need a firm hand.” The one on his neck clenched down softly, and Jesse’s face burned at the indignity of it. “You drank my blood, runt.” Gabriel dragged him forward, into his chest, and Jesse wanted to scream at himself for going lax in his grip. “You’re as much mine now as you ever were. More, even.” Teeth snapped teasingly at his shoulder. “You’ll do what I tell you. Just like old times. You and me against the world.”

“I won’t,” Jesse whispered. “I won’t do a damn thing you say.”

“Jesse.” Shadows crept in around him. “You won’t have a choice.”

The last thing he felt before the shadows overtook his mind was the sharp pain in his shoulder as the Reaper’s fangs tore into him, followed by the warm floating acceptance. He wanted to laugh. He wanted to scream.

He slept.

When he woke up, it was warm. That was the first thing that registered. He was bundled up on a bed softer than any he had slept in for years, blankets thick. It was warm, and it was dark. He was not alone. An arm was curled around his shoulders, pinning him against someone’s side.

Oh, he thought. I’m alive.

Gabriel grumbled, sensing he was awake, and pulled him in closer.

“Mine,” he muttered, tucking Jesse’s head under his chin and nuzzling his nose into his hair. Jesse sighed, hot breath lingering on cool skin. He closed his eyes and went back to sleep.

“Mine,” Gabriel repeated, softer, before languishing in the warmth again and joining him. He felt sated.

#merry christmas erika!!!!#sorry it's late ajgfjfgigrf #mcreyes #i hope it's everything you asked for

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thepunklounge-blog · 6 years

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R2R Scotland Edition: You Take The High Road, I'll Take The Low Road!

Pre-Rebellion Festival catch up with some of Scotland’s finest exponents of mayhem.

The Rebellion Festival, Winter Gardens Blackpool August 2nd – 5th The biggest punk rock festival on the planet has been going (in one form or another) since 1996. More than just about the music, there’s an Art Exhibition, Clothing and Record sales, Healing Workshops, Tattooists, Poetry and so much more. Rebellion is one big family atmosphere under one roof. Well almost, it has spilled out into the car park before! The Acoustic Lounge is popular as you can have a beer, chill and listen to some great music. You can even play Bingo with the mad cap punk Max Splodge every lunchtime! So, let’s hear from some of the Scottish Bands who are making their way to this year's festival.

FIRE EXIT

https://www.facebook.com/FIRE-EXIT https://fireexitpunkrock.bandcamp.com Formed in late ’77, the band have a very long and fluid past. Gerry Attrik has been the main stay of the band throughout and is still the driving force behind the band. There’s not many gigs that Fire Exit have missed through the years. Well-known and well respected by bands and fans alike, Gerry may not quite be the Charlie Harper of Scottish punk rock, but he’s not far off it (and I don’t mean age wise). Their gigs have a festive feel to them as the songs are upbeat and influenced by punk/ska/rock n roll which give them a broad appeal. The rest of the band consist of Jess E Ska (Bass), Paul Thomson (Guitar), Arab (Drums) and Lil Charlie (Mouth Organ).

THE CUNDEEZ

https://www.facebook.com/Thecundeez/ https://soundcloud.com/thecundeez The punk/ska exponents from Dundee, consist of poet/writer/singer/bagpipe player Gary Robertson, Trotsky (Guitar), Stevie (Bass) and Tez (Drums). And although he’s from "darn saff", he got his Scottish passport a long time ago! Sung in the local Dundee dialect, The Cundeez are known for their uncompromising songs. When it comes to playing “lehve” and with song titles like “Yir Talkin Shite” and “Ehm Feelin Teckle” they make no bones about what they sing about, so get “wi” the program! You’ll hear the cry of ‘taps aff’ at many a gig, which often results in various members stripping to the waist... but luckily, the signature kilts remain. If Gary’s voice doesn’t get you, the bagpipes will!

THE EDDIES

https://www.facebook.com/The-Eddies Another fine export from Dundee, the Eddies have been on the scene since ‘94. They are a 5 piece with Lee Guthrie (Vocals), Ed Middleton/Steve Clark (Guitars), Ian Sherriff (Bass) and Andy Cochrane (Drums). They have seen a few changes in line up over the years, but this version has been around for the last three. What you see is what you get with The Eddies. They have a strong setlist which has political and social commentary, well-crafted lyrics and strong well delivered punk rock. The songs often have a singalong nature to them and you’ll see their t-shirts at loads of festivals proving they have the respect of a lot of their peers.

FOUR PAST MIDNIGHT

https://www.facebook.com/4past/ https://4pastmidnight.bandcamp.com Punk Rock from the Streets of Glasgow. That makes it 2 – 2 if it were a game ‘o fitba’. Two from Dundee and two from Glasgow. The band started life in ’89. The colourful Peter McCartney (Vocals) loves to project himself onto the crowd. And although diminutive in figure, he’s larger than life. They are also a 5 piece band that's had a few changes of line ups, but guitar stalwarts Tam/Fred have recently been joined by Dave and Martin on Bass and Drums. Having a frontman like Peter certainly means there’s never a dull moment. Catchy, well delivered pop punk songs with a real drive to them. They are embellished by the flamboyant singer who will “Delete“ you in his mission to bring the “Re-invention Brilliance” to a venue near you.

DELINQUENTS

https://www.facebook.com/delinquentsdundee/ https://delinquentsdundee.bandcamp.com Pop punk outfit from Dundee (That’s 3-2 now!) have only been noising it up since 2015 so are relative newcomers. David Hennessey (Guitar/Bass/Vocals), Graeme Jackson (Bass/Guitar/Vocals) and Ryan Hughes (Drums) have a raw/chaotic demeanour and like to do their best to interact with their crowd. With the occasional swap between guitar and bass during the set (depending what David’s singing) it can get animated on stage. Writing material from self experience, the songs are often raw and from the heart (or the sleeve, depending where it’s being worn).

THE RED EYES

www.facebook.com/pages/The-Red-Eyes/ http://theredeyes.bandcamp.com/ It’s a draw 3-3. Balance has been restored to the precedings. Who’s gonna take the High Road and who’s gonna take the Low Road? No matter, as it’s all about the journey. The Red Eyes bring their ’77 style punk rock to Blackpool. Another 90’s band, formed in ’97, they do love a catchy tune. Their twin guitars work well like many pop punk bands have done so well in the past. The clearly delivered vocals make the songs accessible to a wider audience. Like all the other bands mentioned above, they gig on a regular basis. The band are Alan Bishop (Lead Vocals / R. Guitar), Alex King (Lead Guitar / B. Vocals), David Bradford (Bass) and Jan Hans (Drums).

ESPERANZA

(Picture courtesy of KSG Photography) https://www.facebook.com/Esperanzaska/ https://esperanzaska.bandcamp.com The Glasgow 9 piece collective/super group give the west coast the edge now (4-3 if you’re still counting!). They bring their infectious ska grooves to Blackpool again this year. Jake (Vocals/Guitar), Rab (Lead Guitar), Jess (Bass), John (Keys), Reagin (Trumpet), Fraser (Trombone), Brian and Lynsey (Sax) and Gary (Drums) will bring the energy and have the crowd bouncing. They have a busy gigging schedule but always have time for Rebellion. It’s the bands 10th Anniversary this year and where better to celebrate? Members have come and gone but the show goes on!

TRIPWIRE DC

https://www.facebook.com/TRIPWIREDC/ https://soundcloud.com/TRIPWIRE DC Reggae/Punk/Ska outfit, strictly speaking from Dunblane in Perthshire (but near enough Dundee for the purposes of the game! It’s 4-4). The band are made up of David McCallum (Vocals), Ian Kaye (Guitar), Rich McGlashan (Bass & Backing Vocals), Peter Morrison (Drums + Backing Vocals) and they enjoy an occasional impromptu visit from guests on stage as well. The relaxed festival atmosphere matches their music perfectly. They released their debut album Dark Alleys last year and enjoy gigging up and down the country.

Thanks to all the bands who have agreed to take part in this insight into their "Road to Rebellion"

Q. Rebellion has been running since 1996, when did you first hear about it.

(Fire Exit) I was sitting on the toilet at home reading a magazine. It had an advert for Holidays in the Sun (Festival later Wasted/Rebellion) in Blackpool. Mo and I were just ready to book Greece again and I shouted for her to wait. After she read the advert, we booked Blackpool to see ATV & Sham 69. I think we went to an all dayer in bath before it. (The Cundeez) As individuals, we were always aware of the Rebellion (and Wasted) festival. The line-ups were always fantastic! Unfortunately, those early years for me were at holiday time and a young family came first. (The Eddies) That depends on which band member you speak to. Some of us are a bit longer in the tooth and have been aware of Rebellion for many years. (4 Past Midnight) I first heard about it in 1996 when it was called Holidays in the Sun and held at the Dome Morecambe. (Delinquents) My dad used to talk about going every year when I was a kid but something always came up. It was called Wasted or Holidays in the Sun back then. Blackpool is my old boy’s second home and he introduced me to punk rock. Ironically, we didn’t actually go to the festival together till 2013. We haven’t missed a year since and it’s been like a family holiday as such. (Red Eyes) We actually had a Stiff Little Fingers tribute band called "Hanx!" at the time (95-97) and we played at the very first Festival in 1996. It was called Holidays In The Sun and we played the Saturday afternoon in the Empress Ballroom. We were a very late addition and were only added a few days before as someone had pulled out. 3 out of the 4 of us were going anyway as punters. Think I first heard about it thru' either the NME or Melody Maker (not many people had the internet). It was at the Festival that we talked about doing our own music and from there The Red Eyes were formed. (Esperanza) About 2004, when i was at high school. I had tickets to go when I was 17 but that fell through, finally went in 2015 for the first time. (Tripwire DC) Some of the members of the band have know about it since it started.

Q. What was your initial opinion of Rebellion, as a festival.

(Fire Exit) Loved it and have done ever since. (The Cundeez) Initial opinion of Rebellion, was that it was the hottest ticket as far as going to see Punk and Skinhead bands was concerned. (The Eddies) If you’re playing any kind of Punk rock you’re going to know Rebellion is the biggest festival of its kind with a great reputation for taking care of its people and punters. (4 Past Midnight) My first initial thoughts tbh was how do I get 4pm on it Ha. (Delinquents) Well organised and chaotic if that’s possible. Well organised as you knew were everything was within an hour or two. Chaotic because you are literally running around wanting to see every band. Incredibly friendly, sounds cliché but the ‘punk rock family’ is the friendliest bunch of folk you will ever meet. (Red Eyes) It looked great having a full weekend of Punk bands playing especially the fact that a few bands had re-formed just for the Festival. Slaughter & The Dogs for example. (Esperanza) Very exciting and full of variety. (Tripwire DC) Used to think lots of people that went to Rebellion never supported their local music scenes.

Q. Did your opinion change at all after you went for the first time.

(Fire Exit) Yes I thought it was amazing that so many bands appeared under one roof after so many years, dream come true. (The Cundeez) Our (The Cundeez) first impressions of going to Rebellion was that it was even better than we were hoping for - the totally professional set up, the people, the camaraderie, the banter. We have made so many friends for life. (The Eddies) Absolutely. Even after all the positive reports and excitement about going it was still way more than any of us expected. It lived up to its reputation and then some. (4 Past Midnight) I first went to it 1999 I found it pretty decent and a good time was had. (Delinquents) It didn’t but I certainly did things differently. Like drinking on the train at 10 am and thinking I can see a band playing at 1 am is just bonkers. (Red Eyes) Great weekend from the very first one and has got better and better. I've only missed 3 years out of 22. (Esperanza) Not at all, it was amazing! (Tripwire DC) Yes Definitely, I met people from all over the U.K that I have also met at gigs all over the country.

Q. Was it always your plan to play at Rebellion. What’s your history playing there.

(Fire Exit) I attended everyone even abroad. In 2000 we were having a drink at the bar with Max Splodge & Daz Russell when "Timewall" was playing in the background (our first single released in 1979). Max said to Daz "do you like that?", Daz said "yes love it". Max said "that’s Gerry's band Fire Exit". I was then asked to play the following year and have done since 2001, including Vienna, Venice, and Amsterdam (x3). It's been great. (The Cundeez) As a band, we have been on the go in one form or another since 2007 so a fairly young band in terms of history. Of course we would always have wanted to play Rebellion. We just kept doing our own thing, playing as many gigs as we could and submitting our material to Rebellion organisers. Then some 5 years ago, Stevie (bass player) received a message saying ‘would you like a gig on such a date on a Thursday in Blackpool?’ Initially, he was like ‘I don’t think so’ until they said it was Rebellion! ‘Fuckin right we’ll do it! We’ll travel down yesterday! Hahaha!’ And so it began. We headlined the ‘Introducing Stage’ then followed on the Casbah, Almost Acoustic, Outdoor Stage, Empress Ballroom. It has been an unbelievable experience and the livers have taken some outrageous kickings! (The Eddies) An aspiration rather than a plan perhaps. It must be on every band’s wish list. We were lucky enough to be asked for the first time last year and had the opportunity to the play the Introducing stage which is a great platform for bands new to the festival. It was a great experience and we’re over the moon to be back this year. (4 Past Midnight) We have only played it once in 2006, It was a pretty good experience ...It was called Wasted back then. (Delinquents) It was certainly on the bucket list. We played the introducing stage last year which was incredible. We will have been a band for three years this autumn so I still pinch myself that we are now playing one of the main stages this year. I pinch myself a lot with what we achieved in such a short space of time together. (Red Eyes) Yeah after getting a taster of playing the very first one as Hanx! the goal was always to get The Red Eyes playing at the Festival. The Red Eyes first played in 2001 and then 2003 and 2011. I've played the Acoustic stage 7 times the first time in 2004 when the Acoustic stage was introduced. (Esperanza) Since being in Esperanza I have always wanted us to play and have tried for since I joined 6 years ago. We're all looking forward to finally play at it. Since going I have had even more hope for playing and especially after joining Ex-Cathedra last year in the Ballroom. (Tripwire DC) We always wanted to play, but getting noticed was the hard part, but we are really looking forward to taking things to the next level and this year we are playing Rebellion Introducing Stage.

Q. As a band, how will you get there, where do you stay.

(Fire Exit) Trains, cars. We stay at various B& B & hotels. (The Cundeez) We will travel down in car and always stay at the Lawton Hotel - the staff are brilliant! It’s always nice meeting all the different characters on the road south. (The Eddies) We’re trying to co-ordinate travel but some of us are traveling at different times. A few of us are driving down on Thursday which is the day we play – 1.30 Arena Stage – it’ll mean an early start from Dundee so it could well get messy later in the day! (4 Past Midnight) We are all travelling down individually and staying in the surrounding hotels. I am staying at The Albany. (Delinquents) We head down in the car on the Wednesday, and stay at a B&B for the five days. I can’t actually remember the name of the place we are staying in this year haha! (Red Eyes) 3 of us going by train and one by car. We'll be staying in B&B's. (Esperanza) We will all be driving down and staying in B&Bs. The festival is my summer holiday so I'll be there partying from Wednesday! I think most others will be down from the Thursday. (Tripwire DC) We will be travelling by car, some of us are booked into hotels, Rich goes every year and stays for the duration.

Q. Do you have any stand out memories through the years.

(Fire Exit) Loads we definitely play our best at the festivals feeding off the crowd .but my best memory is when we sat with Lars (Rancid) and he went on stage during his set and dedicated happy birthday to Mo (my wife & mate for life). (The Cundeez) Stand out memories would definitely be the first one headlining the Introducing Stage - absolutely shiting oor breeks! Actually, come to think o it, dinna hae any breeks on so shiting the kilts I suppose hahaha! (The Eddies) It’s got to be playing there for the first time. (4 Past Midnight) Well like I said we have only played once so only the one memory I’m afraid lol (Delinquents) Playing is obviously a stand out but Rancid headlining in 2012, The Damned’s set, Anti Flag in 2015 were absolute stormers. Frank Carter and Slaves definitely brought it last year. I got blind drunk and fell asleep in the opera house in 2016 during Peter Hook and The Light after queuing for ages to get in. His set was quality and full of Joy Division classics and I came to during one of my favourite ever songs ‘Ceremony’. Another memory is losing my phone, hotel key and trying to get all four members of The Zips in a taxi at about 3 am last year. It was like herding cattle. (Red Eyes) Just all the years I've been lucky enough to play either with the band or solo acoustic. Made a lot of good friends over the years as well. The years when the Festival was in Morecambe were good as well. The Dome was a great venue (sadly no longer there). Got to see so many bands I'd never seen before and probably wouldn't have had the chance to if it wasn't for Holidays In The Sun, Wasted or Rebellion. (Esperanza) Playing with Ex-Cathedra last year was amazing, such a buzz. The year before that I ended up dancing on stage with Roy Ellis. (Tripwire DC) Yes.. Rancid in 2011 or 2012, were totally awesome, Jaya the Cat blew me away the first time I saw them, Dirt Box Disco in the ballroom with 4,000 people and a Rebellion Record of over 90 stage dives, Rich was one of these.

Q. Do you have a routine for Rebellion, do you make a plan or go with the flow?

(Fire Exit) The best plans never work we rehearse the week before plan to see as many bands as we can , it usually gets blown out the water as you meet so many friends old & new and stat gassing to everyone you miss the bands you waited to see. But its fantastic atmosphere. (The Cundeez) General rule for us as a band - focus, play the best we can, entertain, get the job done then drink hard and play hard. (The Eddies) A bit of both really. With so many great bands playing over the weekend you’ve got to have some kinda battle plan to make sure you catch the other bands you really want to see. (4 Past Midnight) We are preparing to put on a spectacular show ...With my Reinvention Brilliance Condeeeetion anything is now possible ...It will be a spectacular Extravaganza to say the least Count on That Brother !! (Delinquents) Always list the bands I absolutely don’t want to miss. I like to spend time at the RIS since its inception. Other than that I go with the flow. (Red Eyes) Have made plans but they usually go out the window after the first beer lol....go with the flow. (Esperanza) No, fun, dancing, party. Bringing some Scottish ska to the masses! (Tripwire DC) we always have a plan, but plans don’t always go accordingly, especially if the sun is shining outside.

Q. Any bands that are a must see this year?

(Fire Exit) Church of Confidence , The Red Eyes, 4PM . Control. The Boys, Splodge,TV Smith just loads far too many to mention. (The Cundeez) I’d be lying if I said we’ll be going see this band or that band. We WILL try and see as many bands as we can but for us, the social element is just as important and mixing and having a drink and a laugh with as many people as we can. Want to see the Buzzcocks, Exploited, Upstarts, GBH, Cockney Rejects. (The Eddies) Too many to list here but we’ve gotta put a shout out to the other Dundee bands Delinquents and The Cundeez. (4 Past Midnight) Most of the American bands Lagwagon, Lillingtons, Bonecrusher, But to be honest I am going to be focusing on my own band spreading the word passing out flyers putting up posters of Brilliance, We must Delete all the Non Believers of my Reinvention Brilliance Condeeeetion. (Delinquents) The Menzingers, IDLES, The Wildhearts, Buzzcocks, Angelic Upstarts, Adolescents, Billy Liar, Aerial Salad, No Thrills, The Eddies and Face Up. (Red Eyes) First of all a big shout out to the other Scottish bands who are playing - Fire Exit, The Eddies, 4PM, The Cundeez, Esperanza and The Delinquents...hope to catch them all. Heavy Drapes would have been a must see if not for the passing of Garry R.I.P. Theatre of Hate, The Boys, Macc Lads, Upstarts, Subs, Bar Stool Preachers, The Lee Harveys, TV. Smith, The Briefs, SLF, Ruts DC, Church of Confidence plus loads more....again that's the plan but whether it happens... lol. (Esperanza) Esperanza obviously . Definitely check out Faintest Idea, great ska band! And obviouslt The Adicts, the show itself is something else. (Tripwire DC) Jaya the Cat , Millie Manders and The Shutup

Q. Do you spend much time at The Introducing Stage? Do you check out the bands before Rebellion?

(Fire Exit) Yes I try and get in as much as I can , it’s a great idea and lets you see other gigging bands. Some real diamonds came outta that stage, Heavy Drapes for instance. Yip get in and see new talent. (The Cundeez) Like I say, we don’t plan our time at Rebellion, it really does roll and go with the flow but we do try to take in the Introducing Stage, always some real gems to be found there. (The Eddies) Absolutely. There were some great bands played there last year, and this year will be no different. It’s a great opportunity to catch bands you maybe aren’t as aware of. (4 Past Midnight) Well I have only been twice that was before there was an introducing stage , I'm sure I will venture to it to see whats what. (Delinquents) As mentioned previously it was a stage I frequented often last year. I actually try not to check them for the RIS as it feels completely fresh watching the band live without knowing what they sound like. I plan every other band, it’s nice to be surprised sometimes in music and sometimes I really miss that buzz of just discovering a band live without ever listening to them beforehand. (Red Eyes) Popped in and out last year but not for long. Hope to check out a few more on that stage this year. Usually check out a few on youtube to see what I might like. (Esperanza) I really like the Introducing stage and its new place at the front door is very clever and much better than previously. Over the past few years I have discovered a lot of new bands through it. And yes, I do like to look up bands before it, especially with unusual names and ones I've never heard. (Tripwire DC) Yes always spend time at the Introducing stage, I think it is the most important part of Rebellion, Bringing new bands through, old school bands won't live forever.

Q. The main festival is over 4 days, do you plan to attend every day?

(Fire Exit) Of course every year, rude not to. (The Cundeez) Due to work or family commitments (or both) we can’t all manage the 4 days, usually 3 and then the liver gets hung out to dry on the washing line. (The Eddies) Oh yes. (4 Past Midnight) Yeassssss Brother all 4 days there are many Obsolete Mules to DELETE!! (Delinquents) Yes. Every year probably as long as I can. (Red Eyes) No coming home Sunday (work commitments) 3 out of 4 days ain’t bad. (Esperanza) Yes! I will be in the Rose and Crown for the pre-party and then for the afterparty! (Tripwire DC) Yes will be there every day.

Q. It can be a long 4 days, any tips for surviving the festival?

(Fire Exit) Yes pace it out eat a big breakfast start drinking as early as you can, sleep in between bands and have the best fun in your life. Oh eat something later as well then keep drinking don’t stop till Sunday night. (The Cundeez) Tips for surviving the Festival would definitely be - don’t drink with The Cundeez! Hahaha (The Eddies) Go easy in the afternoon - keep hydrated – look out for each other. (4Past Midnight) Yeasssssssssssssssss Plenty of rest , And if you pay me a visit and I knight you with the cane of Brilliance you will feel like the man thats super Delightful (Delinquents) Try and nap when there aren’t bands on that you want to see. Otherwise you ain’t lasting till 1am! Don’t get too drunk and lose your phone. Remember what hotel you are in and don’t try and blag your way into other hotels when you can’t find your hotel key. Just sayin. (Red Eyes) Plenty of sleep and straight back "on it" the next day lol. (Esperanza) No. Esperanza normally play festivals of the same length but with camping only so it's very fortunate to have a real bed to go back to. It's a bit of luxury compared to our usual ones! (Tripwire DC) drink alcohol in moderation if possible, drink plenty water and remember to eat food.

Q. As an artist, has Rebellion changed your outlook any? It’s a huge festival, more than a one off venue.

(Fire Exit) Yes it has. I can honestly say including ourselves half the bands would never have reformed or kept going if it wasn’t for the Rebellion festival. (The Cundeez) As a band, playing Rebellion hasn’t changed our attitudes in any way. Yes, it’s a massive deal but we are always grateful for any invite and appreciate being part of a wonderful family of nutters! (The Eddies) It’s good to get a sense of achievement from playing and it brings a desire to push again for next year which in turn brings a creative focus. (4 Past Midnight) It hasnt changed my view tbh , I just wish a lot of the people who go would consider going to a small gig , There is too much of this Nostalgia nonsense going on People afraid or just plain stubborn who refuse to appreciate any of the smaller acts that are around only focusing on the bands of old, it's pretty sad really , Unless we move on and look to the future what chance has the Rock of Punk scene got? Before it totally DELETES itself . (Delinquents) I’ve always seen it as a huge festival. I call it the Wrestlemania of the punk calendar. The granddaddy of them all. It’s becoming much more a melting pot over the years which have been really positive. Proper diverse, all different genres and bands from ska to folk to grindcore. A festival that can book Misty in Roots, Dr and the Medics to Extreme Noise Terror is a winner for me. (Red Eyes) It's great that you get all styles playing. I like a variety of stuff so there's always something for everybody. I always enjoy playing the Acoustic stage and have now played many acoustic gigs since that first one in 2004. (Esperanza) No. I really enjoy the experience and the way that artists are looked after considering it's so big. (Tripwire DC) Rebellion brings people from all over the world together, this is a good thing.

Q. Would you say Rebellion is the highlight of your year?

(Fire Exit) 100% definitely , we do gig all over the place but I think its fair to say It’s the best , biggest and most social gathering not just for Fire Exit but all the bands that play it. (The Cundeez) For The Cundeez, Rebellion is without doubt the highlight of the year for us. We were over the moon to be invited to play Dublin Rebellion in 2017 and very recently Amsterdam Rebellion but Blackpool is Blackpool - buzzing for it! (The Eddies) It’s certainly one of them. (4 Past Midnight) No..it is a great festival but there are always other things in life that become your highlight of the year . (Delinquents) Yes, definitely. You are lying if it isn’t. (Red Eyes) Definitely the best weekend of the year! (Esperanza) Definitely, there is so much going, bands, stalls, fringe and a large gathering of great, friendly people. (Tripwire DC) Yes

Q. Are you planning anything special for Rebellion? Perhaps a single, EP, or album launch?

(Fire Exit) No not this year we did last year our 40 year celebrations we released 2 cds > Fire Exit - 40 years 40 track double cd. Only £10. And we also recorded & released our Fire Exit live at The Wild at Heart (Berlin) Live cd.£9. and we gave away a Firecaster Guitar. (The Cundeez) The Cundeez are presently working on a fifth album but unfortunately it won’t be ready in time for Blackpool. Look out also, for an Acoustic album coming soon. The Almost Acoustic Stage with John ‘Huggy’ Hughes is tremendous. You get to hear bands stripped back and usually some good banter. (The Eddies) We’re feverishly working away on a new EP showcasing 5 new songs which we’re aiming to have ready for Rebellion (4 Past Midnight) We have nothing new to release , We have a new vinyl ep coming out in September ...Our plans for the festival that is rebellious is simple ...Come ...Perform , Make it a spectacular , And above all ...DELETE ALL THE NON BELIEVERS !!!...We Are The Reinvention Brilliance ..We are the DELETION ERA!! (Delinquents) If all goes to plan we will be dropping a brand new song called ‘Sober On Sunday’ as a digital single with a music video the week of Rebellion. That’s if it all goes to plan of course. We released our debut ‘About Last Night’ last September but had promo copies for Rebellion which ended up selling out of on the day. (Red Eyes) We'll be playing the majority of songs from our new album "Man & Boy". (Esperanza) No (Tripwire DC) Possibly special T shirts

Q. Out with the main Winter Gardens, do you go to any other venues?

(Fire Exit) I visit all the stages over the 4 days also Art / and acoustic stages. (which we also Play). (The Cundeez) The only venue we go to outwith the Winter Gardens is Weatherspoon’s Pub fir cheap swally! (The Eddies) Yeah. There’s usually a lot of great gigs on around Blackpool across the weekend which gives you the chance to see other bands outwith the festival itself, or another chance to some who are but you maybe missed before. (4 Past Midnight) We are playing an after show at the Tache rock club on the Saturday Night 1am , A warm up as it were for the final and Ultimate DELETION!! I also plan to go see a friends band The Rock That Combats ..Clash Tribute on the Saturday evening 6pm I think (Delinquents) Rose and Crown/Scruffy Murphy’s but just for the beer! Sorry Winter Gardens but the beer sucks. (Red Eyes) If I can last the pace maybe an aftershow at the Tache....that's always a great way to end the night. (Esperanza) Rose and Crown but I like to stay at the main festival because there's so much going on. (Tripwire DC) sometimes watch bands playing in other venues/pubs

Q. When do you play Rebellion this year?

(Fire Exit) on Thursday Fire Exit play our main set in The Arena stage at 8.20pm and the on Friday Fire Exit play a Punkoostic set on the Almost Acoustic stage at 4.55. (The Cundeez) We play Rebellion ‘Casbah Stage’ Thursday 2nd August 5.45pm this year. (The Eddies) Day 1, Thursday, Arena stage, 1.30. (4 Past Midnight) Sunday August 5th ..Arena Stage 6.55pmm (Delinquents) 4.15 Pavilion Stage on Thursday. (Red Eyes) We're playing the Pavilion on the Thursday 9.45pm - 10.30pm. (Esperanza) Friday night at 12.30am. Late night ska party! (Tripwire DC) We play on Saturday Introducing Stage 17:45 - 18:15

Q. Why should anyone come see your band, in a nut shell?

(Fire Exit) It’s a PARTY and it would be rude not to. We have a great line up and just want to spread the word that hey we can play we can have fun and you can leave your worries at the door and forget the outside world. Came and have Fun (The Cundeez) The Cundeez bring something a little bit different with a mixture of hard punk, Ska, bagpipes and bundles of laughter and smiles. Thank you Raymond for the interview and special thanks to Darren, Jennie, Jonny and the whole Rebellion family for havin us. (The Eddies) We’ll give you 30 mins of classic high octane Punk rock delivered with passion and pride, plus…..we don’t get to play Blackpool all that often, you’d be daft to miss us. (4 Past Midnight) WE ARE THE REINVENTION BRILLIANCE , WE ARE MORE , NO OTHER BAND IS LIKE US , WE ARE PUSHING THE BOUNDRIES OF THE ROCK OF PUNK , YOU WILL EITHER LOVE US OR HATE US BUT YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO DENIE OUR BRILLIANCE!! WE ARE THE DELETION ERA!! Think that about sums it up . (Delinquents) We are a glorious mess. We’ll see you there. (Red Eyes) If old skool 70's punk is your thing with top tunes and sing-along choruses then we're the band for you! Check us out on our facebook page and our bandcamp....Cheers! (Esperanza) We are an energetic 9 piece ska band and will put a smile on your face and make you tap your toes (at the minimum). True ska and all original material. If you don't believe us ask Bad Manners, Steve Ignorant, Bar Stool Preachers or The Beat! Basically, come see us, dance and party! (Tripwire DC) Tripwire DC are a Reggae Rock Ska Punk band, we put our own individual style on these, whether we are playing in front of 5, 50 or 500 we always do our utmost to entertain Massive thanks to Gerry Attrik (Fire Exit), Gary Robertson (The Cundeez), Ian Sherriff (The Eddies), Peter McCartney (4 Past Midnight), David Hennessey (Delinquents), Alan Bishop (The Red Eyes), Jess E Ska (Esperanza) and Rich McGlashan (Tripwire DC) for taking the time to answer these questions. Hope they have a great festival and please, show them your support by checking them out at Rebellion Read the full article

#4PastMidnight #Delinquents #Esperanza #Fireexit #TheCundeez #TheEddies #TheRedEyes #Tripwiredc

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